How Do You Apply for Medicaid Benefits?

To apply for Medicaid benefits, an applicant can determine eligibility for coverage at HealthCare.gov, by answering a few income and household information questions. If an individual qualifies based on the information given, the site provides directions for how to apply.

Eligibility for Medicaid coverage differs according to the applicant's state of residence, explains Healthcare.gov. Some of the factors taken into account are the applicant's income, the number of members in the household, disability qualification and family status. Some states have expanded Medicaid coverage. In these states, eligibility to receive benefits is based solely on income and family size.

Even if the applicant does not qualify for coverage as an individual, the applicant's children may qualify for coverage under the Children's Health Insurance Program. When an applicant with children applies for Medicaid, he is automatically informed if his children qualify for coverage under the program. Although an applicant may not qualify for Medicaid benefits, he may qualify for low-cost private insurance available in the state or federal Health Insurance Marketplace. A single application to determine available state coverage for Medicaid, CHIP or low-cost private insurance is available at the Marketplace. Other potential benefits include expanded coverage under current Medicaid plans and coverage for former foster children.